ECB's latest statement and FAQs in relation Government Roadmap Announcement
Following recent Government announcements regarding the roadmap out of lockdown we are aware that the cricket community is anxiously waiting for the release of the detailed guidance on Cricket’s return. On Friday, 5th March, the ECB released the statement below together with some important FAQs regarding the current position …
ECB Update 5th March 2021:
We have been pleased with the recent Government announcements highlighting a return to cricket in England from the 29th March. We continue to work closely with DCMS and UK Government to ensure cricket plays it’s part in ensuring the safe opening up of society and that we continue to be highly respected thanks to the efforts of club volunteers up and down the country. As we finalise our guidance which will be shared with you all shortly we understand that some of you have asked questions on what activity is permissible at the moment.
Q. Can I deliver 1:1 coaching sessions?
A. Not at this time. Sports venues (including cricket facilities) must remain closed as instructed by the government until at least 29/3/21 (subject to review) and you may currently only exercise in a public outdoor space with one other person. ECB is clear that the definition of exercise in a public space is not intended to include cricket activity. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home#exercising
Q. Can I meet with other club committee members to get the ground ready for the start of the season?
A. Not at this time. ‘Stay at Home where possible’ is still in force, so grounds maintenance should be limited to essential preparation tasks with essential staff only. Large working parties are not appropriate at this stage. Clubs should risk assess any lifting or lone working that would be an health and safety risk, and delay that until Step 1b (29/3/21) when the Rule of Six will apply and ‘Stay at Home’ will be replaced with ‘Stay Local’, then sub-grouped (max 6) working parties would be more appropriate. For more information please see the latest Sport England Guidance
Thank you for your understanding in keeping people safe this summer.
Just to add to the message above, Wiltshire Cricket would again reiterate that Cricket currently enjoys a positive relationship with Government due to the successful and responsible manner in which the Sport returned last summer. It is essential that the Sport’s reputation continues to be strong and that everyone acts responsibly when we do get back out on to the field this summer. It is also for this reason that the ECB and Government are rightly taking the time to ensure that the Sport’s guidance is ready and fit for purpose. Therefore, despite some sports having already released return to activity guidance we would not see it as a negative that cricket is taking a few extra days. Cricket has consistently acted in a careful but well thought through manner throughout this pandemic and this has contributed to both the success with which the Sport has operated at all levels, but also to the strength of reputation that has been developed with Government.
As soon as guidance is released, Wiltshire Cricket will be back in touch with the cricket community across the county to share details.
